Cambodia wasn’t just another stop on our journey—it was an experience that challenged us, surprised us, and ultimately stayed with us in ways we didn’t expect.
We spent a week traveling from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, guided by a thoughtfully curated itinerary from AboutAsia Travel that balanced iconic sites with deeply local, off-the-beaten-path moments. What followed was a journey filled with ancient wonder, cultural immersion, emotional weight, and unexpected joy.
Day 1 – Arrival in Siem Reap
We arrived in Siem Reap in the afternoon, greeted by our guide and quickly transferred to our hotel, The Aviary Hotel. After long travel days, this was exactly what we needed—a smooth landing before diving into Cambodia.
Day 2 – Temples, Monkeys & Sunset on the Water
Our first full day set the tone for everything to come.
We began early, exploring jungle-covered temples like Ta Prohm and Ta Nei—places where nature has quite literally reclaimed history. Massive tree roots twist through ancient stone, creating a setting that feels more like a movie than real life.
What makes Angkor so special isn’t just its scale—though it’s staggering. It’s the way history, spirituality, and nature exist together in perfect tension. Once the center of the Khmer Empire—the largest pre-industrial city in the world—Angkor was an incredibly advanced network of temples, reservoirs, and roadways. Today, what remains feels both ancient and alive—shaped by centuries of devotion, reclaimed by the jungle, and still deeply tied to Cambodian identity.
But what we didn’t expect?
The monkeys.
There were dozens—maybe hundreds—running wild through the temple grounds. Tiny newborns clung to their mothers, some clearly only days old. And then… they started swimming.
Not casually—full-on playing. Jumping into the water from the steps, splashing each other, chasing, stealing food from unsuspecting tourists. At one point, our guide handed a monkey a water bottle—and we watched it unscrew the cap and drink from it like a human. Moments later, it caught a grasshopper and ate it. Equal parts fascinating and chaotic.
That evening, we experienced something straight out of a dream.
As outlined in our itinerary, we ended the day on a traditional wooden boat along an ancient Angkorian waterway . While most tourists crowded temples for sunset, we had something entirely different:
Silence.
Still water.
Birdsong.
Casey had beers. I had a gin and tonic. And for a moment, Cambodia felt completely ours.
Day 3 – Floating Villages & Life on the Water
This day gave us a completely different perspective on Cambodia.We visited the floating village on Tonlé Sap Lake—one of the richest freshwater ecosystems in the world . Even though water levels were low, we learned how entire communities adapt by lifting their homes during the rainy season.We cruised through the village, visited a floating market/restaurant, and saw everything from baby crocodiles to full-grown ones (along with crocodile leather goods).In between tours, we had lunch at Chanrey Tree, which ended up being one of our favorite meals of the trip. I ordered Poh Tan Mamm Chao—incredible crispy pork belly… though I’ll admit, the pig intestine portion was not for me. Casey’s beef skewers? Perfect.
Later, we walked around North Baray, and just before sunset, wandered through a temple where the light poured through the stone doorways. Everything glowed gold. It was quiet, peaceful, and honestly one of those moments you wish you could freeze in time.
Day 4 – Sunrise at Angkor Wat & A Night We’ll Never Forget
This was the day.
We woke up at 4:00 AM. Left at 4:45. And somehow, it was worth every second.
Watching the sun rise behind Angkor Wat is one of those rare, truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences. As the sky slowly shifted and the silhouette of the temple came into view, everything just… stopped.
It’s hard to explain, but it’s something you feel more than see.
After a much-needed nap and one of the best massages I’ve had (90 minutes, four hands, $65—yes, really), the day somehow got even better.
We received a monk blessing—an incredibly peaceful, spiritual moment where we were given sai sim bracelets for protection and good fortune.
Then we stepped into real Cambodian life.
We visited a local village, helped weave a basket, tasted fresh mango and plums, made origami from palm leaves, and drank coconut milk straight from the source.
And then came the highlight of the entire trip (second only to Angkor sunrise):
Set deep in the countryside, we were welcomed with champagne, rode through the village on an ox cart, took a cocktail-making class, and I had a foot massage as the sun set over the rice fields.
Dinner followed—private, romantic, and completely surreal.
If Angkor Wat was awe-inspiring, this was intimate. Personal. Unforgettable.
Day 5 – Phnom Penh Arrival
We flew to Phnom Penh and checked into the Baitong Hotel Phnom Penh Hotel and Resort. A slower day—haircut for me, gym for Casey, happy hour to wind down.
That evening, we watched The Killing Fields to prepare for what was ahead.
We had no idea just how heavy it would be.
Day 6 – Beauty, Brutality & A Night Out
This was the most emotionally difficult day of the trip.
We visited the Royal Palace and National Museum in the morning, but the afternoon shifted dramatically.
The Killing Fields and S-21 Genocide Museum are not easy places to visit—and they shouldn’t be.
S-21 was once a school, turned into a prison and torture center where over 17,000 people were held before being executed . The Killing Fields are mass graves from the Khmer Rouge era, where nearly 2 million people lost their lives.
We didn’t take photos. It didn’t feel right.
It’s heavy. Sobering. And deeply important.
It forces reflection—on humanity, history, and how something like this could ever happen.
Afterward, we needed a reset.
That night, we ventured out and found one of the coolest hidden gems: a speakeasy called Battbong, accessed through a Coca-Cola vending machine. (Yes, really.)
After getting lost down a few questionable alleys—thankfully redirected by some local kids—we made it inside and enjoyed cocktails and live music.
Dinner followed at Garage Sale, where we ordered unapologetically American food: chicken tenders (massive), loaded tots, and a smash burger. The “tendies” alone were worth it.
But the real highlight?
Talking with our waitress.
We learned about daily life in Cambodia—cost of living, long work hours, the intense heat, and how drastically things change during the rainy season. And like everyone we met, she was excited about the New Year.
Day 7 – Khmer New Year & A Perfect Ending
Today marks the beginning of Khmer New Year, one of the most important holidays in Cambodia, celebrated from April 14–16 .
It’s a time for family, tradition, and renewal. Many people travel back to their hometowns, businesses close, and the entire country shifts into celebration mode.
And us?
We’re sitting poolside, sipping Baitong spritzes, eating fresh spring rolls, and reflecting on everything we’ve experienced.
Later today, we’ll visit the legendary Raffles Hotel for Afternoon Tea and cocktails at the Elephant Bar—an iconic colonial-era property known for hosting royalty, writers, and dignitaries for nearly a century.
Tomorrow, we head to Singapore.
Final Thoughts – Cambodia Will Surprise You
There are a lot of misconceptions about Cambodia.
But here’s the truth:
It’s safe.
The food is incredible.
And the people? Some of the kindest we’ve encountered anywhere in the world.
Yes, it’s a country that has endured unimaginable hardship.
But what you’ll find is a place rich in culture, resilience, and an appreciation for life, family, and connection that’s hard to put into words.
If you’re even considering it—go.
Cambodia isn’t just a destination.
It’s an experience that stays with you.
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